“Is this a big test of Fiorentina’s capabilities? I don’t know about that, but it is certainly an important game for both teams,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

“This Inter does have something more than the other teams, otherwise how would you explain that they have the third biggest wage bill in the League? Inter have top quality players as well as promising youngsters.

“Can Inter win the Scudetto? They have the players and not being in Europe is a small advantage, just as it was for us last season. It’s a strong side and the club is accustomed to success.

“Our objectives for this season are to pick up points, entertain the crowds and above all to grow our young players so they can become future greats. That is our objective, then I don’t know what expectations might be for us.”

Alvarez was desperately disappointing under Andrea Stramaccioni, but seems to have been reborn under Walter Mazzarri’s management at Inter.

“I believe a great deal in the resurrection of players,” smiled Montella. “After a dark period, if you have pride and a pragmatic Coach, then the results will arrive.

“Alvarez is an exceptional player and we tried asking for him, but Inter didn’t want to sell. He is very talented.”

Montella knows all about how a player can develop with Mazzarri, having worked in his team at Sampdoria.

“Mazzarri is pragmatic and prepares the match carefully, including his substitutions. I remember a game at Siena where he left me on the bench and when I came on, I scored a decisive goal. Our rapport started from there. He also taught me not to drag problems along with me.”